What was the case about?
This was a divorce case about money and assets.
- A husband and wife ended a long marriage (about 19 years).
- They had no children.
- The main dispute was about how much money the husband really had.
What did each side say?
- The wife said:
The husband was hiding money, possibly through companies and trusts. - The husband said:
He had almost no money left and his business had collapsed.
What did the judge think?
The judge did not believe the husband’s story.
- The husband did not properly explain his finances
- Important documents were missing
- His lifestyle (spending, travel, etc.) did not match someone with no money
The court concluded that the husband was likely hiding, or had not fully disclosed, his wealth.
What happens when someone hides money?
The court has a rule:
If someone does not provide proper financial information, the judge can make reasonable assumptions against them.
In this case:
- The judge assumed the husband had access to more money than he admitted
- The court effectively filled in the gaps based on the evidence available.
What was the outcome?
Even though the exact amount of the husband’s wealth was unclear:
- The court decided he had several million pounds available
- The wife was awarded:
- A lump sum of over £2 million
- Financial support to meet her needs.
Why is this case important?
It sends a clear message:
1. You must be honest about your finances
If you try to hide money:
- The court may assume you have more than you say
- This can lead to worse outcomes for you
2. Judges look at real life, not just paperwork
If your lifestyle suggests wealth (expensive living, travel, etc.):
- The court may not believe claims of having little or no money.
3. Fairness still comes first
Because the true amount of money wasn’t clear:
- The judge focused on what the wife needed to live reasonably, rather than splitting everything exactly
If a party hides money in divorce proceedings, the court may draw adverse inferences and make an order based on the evidence available. This case once again highlights the need to be totally transparent and honest when going through a divorce.
How can we help?
Louise Scott is a Senior Associate in our Family Law team, she has dealt with this issue on many occasions and can guide you through the proceedings with compassion and clarity. If you would like tailored advice on this issue, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
She also advises on divorce, dissolution of civil partnerships, finances and private children disputes.
For more information or advice, please call Louise or another member of our team in Derby, Leicester or Nottingham on 0800 024 1976 or contact us via our online form.
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